A cabinet member is stepping down at the forthcoming elections.

Clr Peter O’Neill is stepping down from his Batley West seat for health reasons, and his daughter Marielle has been selected to replace him as the Labour candidate.

Clr O’Neill, who was elected eight years ago and has been in the Cabinet for six years, said: “Marielle is 100% committed to getting the best for Batley and has the skills and expertise needed to successfully represent Batley at the council.

“She has a lot of energy and new ideas and will hopefully inspire more young people to become active in politics.”

Marielle, 26, has been active in politics for the past ten years and has worked in Parliament and in Washington DC, but wants to represent her home town.

She currently works in a role supporting vulnerable elderly people.

She said she had “big shoes to fill” adding: “I will fight to ensure everyone in Batley is given the help and support they need to have a fair shot in life.”

Clr O’Neill is looking forward to spending time with his grandchildren whilst still serving the community in a voluntary capacity.